New youth hostel for Charleroi

One of the elements of the burgeoning residential market which is not often mentioned, has seen a new opening in Charleroi. The ‘Arthur Rimbaud’ youth hostel was inaugurated a few days ago, with 200 beds. Architects DDS+ designed the hostel, which represents the transformation from offices to residential of a construction above the old Galerie du Brabant.

This means that the new youth hostel is close to the river in the lower town of Charleroi, a district which has seen a great deal of rehabilitation over recent times. French poet Arthur Rimbaud spent a short time, her, hence the name.

In terms of location, the Ravel bicycle-path, Charleroi railway station and the car-park of the Rive Gauche shopping centre, are all close by. The hostel also forms part of the new network of pedestrianised streets which characterises the renovation of the lower town.

Inside, the hostel has a reception area and bar on the first floor, along with a vast terrace and meeting rooms. Higher up is a restaurant and shared kitchen facilities for families and small groups. Bedrooms contain 2, 4 or 6 beds.